If you need Valentine’s Day date ideas, these tips may help. (photo credit: BigStockPhoto.com)
If you are feeling uninspired or just don’t want to go the traditional flowers/chocolate/restaurant route this Valentine’s day, don’t worry; there are lots of fun and creative ways to celebrate this special day. Gather the people you love around you and use some of these tips to create a very special Valentine’s Day for the one or ones you love.
1. Think Outside the Box
Single? Married? Somewhere in between? No matter what your current significant other status is, you have lots of reasons to celebrate this February 14th. While it is traditionally a day about romantic love, don’t let that stop you from celebrating all the love you have in your life. This can be anything from spending the evening with your spouse and kids to hosting a family get together where everyone is invited. Think beyond date night and take this opportunity to let all the loved ones in your life know how you feel about them.
Having people over? There is no better way to let them know how much you care than a heart healthy spread that is a delicious as it is good for you. Try a buffet style meal featuring Asian Lettuce Wraps, Chicken Lettuce Wraps, and Goat Cheese Lettuce Wraps.
2. Dine In
Going out on Valentine’s Day can be hectic, expensive, and not always as romantic as the picture in our head. Save time and money while amping up the romance by dining in. Show your significant other or whomever you choose to spend this evening with how much you care by cooking for them. Nothing says you are special better than when someone takes the time and makes the effort to make a meal from scratch. Here are some sure-fire main dish recipes that are mouth-watering and made to please.
- Arizona Rancher’s Prime Rib
- Basque Barbecue Leg of Lamb
- Chicken Breasts with Cheese and Chilies
- Herb Roasted Chicken
- Marinated Beef Tips
- Pork Loin Cutlets with Goat Cheese Apricot Stuffing
3. Pack a Picnic
While other people may be bundling up this Valentine’s Day, here in Arizona the weather can be perfect for a hike, a bike ride, or any outdoor activity spent with your loved ones. Spending time together doing things you love is one of the best possible ways to spend this day and choosing this kind of activity and a picnic you pack at home can also save you money on what can be a very expensive day. Salads make great picnic foods because you can toss everything in a bowl and not have to worry about it getting smashed or spilled. Pack some fresh fruit, chopped veggies, and any of these splendid salads for a day your loved ones will never forget.
- Apple Pear Salad
- Avocado and Tomato Salad
- Country Garden Salad
- Join the Party Salad
- Melon Cucumber Salad
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